Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent: What You Need to Know

When it comes to buying or selling a property, choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A great agent can streamline the process, negotiate the best deal, and help you avoid costly mistakes. On the other hand, the wrong agent can make the experience frustrating, stressful, and even financially damaging.

As someone who has worked with countless buyers, sellers, and investors through My BnB Accelerator, I’ve seen firsthand how the right real estate agent can change the game. In this article, I’ll break down exactly what to look for in an agent, common red flags to avoid, and how to make the right choice based on your unique needs.

Why Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent Matters

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your real estate portfolio, an agent plays a crucial role in your success.

Here’s what the right agent can do for you:

? Provide expert guidance on pricing, marketing, and negotiations

? Save you time by handling paperwork and legal details

? Connect you with trusted inspectors, lenders, and contractors

? Ensure a smooth transaction by anticipating and resolving potential issues

? Help you get the best possible price—whether you’re buying or selling

But not all agents are created equal. The key is to find one who aligns with your goals, understands the local market, and has a proven track record of success.

Key Qualities to Look for in a Real Estate Agent

1. Experience & Market Knowledge

Real estate markets fluctuate constantly, and a knowledgeable agent will understand trends, pricing strategies, and the nuances of specific neighborhoods.

?? Questions to Ask:

? How many years have you been in real estate?

? Do you specialize in my target area?

? Can you provide data on recent sales in my price range?

Look for an agent who can answer these confidently and back it up with real-world examples.

2. Strong Communication Skills

Real estate transactions move fast, and you need an agent who is responsive and proactive.

?? Red Flags:

? Slow response times to calls or emails

? Vague or unclear explanations

? Lack of follow-up on important details

A good agent should keep you updated at every step, explain complex terms in plain language, and make themselves available when you need them.

3. Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is a crucial part of buying and selling real estate. Whether it’s securing a lower purchase price, negotiating favorable contract terms, or getting top dollar for your home, a skilled negotiator can make a huge difference.

?? How to Evaluate:

? Ask about a time they negotiated a great deal for a client.

? Check their track record for closing deals above or below the asking price.

? See if they have additional certifications in negotiation or sales.

A strong agent fights for your best interests, not just for the sake of closing a deal.

4. A Solid Network of Industry Connections

The best agents don’t just work alone—they have a network of trusted professionals, including lenders, inspectors, contractors, and appraisers.

?? Why This Matters:

? If you need a quick pre-approval, they should have a lender they trust.

? If repairs come up during an inspection, they should have a reliable contractor to recommend.

? If you’re buying an investment property, they should connect you with a property manager.

An agent with strong industry ties can save you time, money, and hassle.

5. A Proven Track Record of Success

Don’t just take an agent’s word for it—ask for proof of their performance.

?? What to Look For:

? A list of recent sales, including the time it took to close and the final sale price

? Online reviews and client testimonials

? A history of working with clients similar to you (e.g., first-time buyers, investors, luxury home sellers)

The right agent will have a clear history of satisfied clients and successful transactions.

How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent

1. Get Recommendations & Read Reviews

Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold a home for recommendations. Online platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Google Reviews can also provide insights into an agent’s reputation.

2. Interview Multiple Agents

Don’t settle for the first agent you meet. Interview at least two or three before making a decision.

?? Questions to Ask During the Interview:

? What’s your experience in this specific market?

? How will you communicate with me throughout the process?

? What marketing strategies do you use (for sellers)?

? How do you handle competitive bidding situations (for buyers)?

A great agent will be transparent, knowledgeable, and confident in their approach.

3. Evaluate Their Marketing & Presentation

If you’re selling a home, your agent’s marketing skills matter. Ask to see previous listings they’ve worked on and evaluate the quality of their photos, descriptions, and overall strategy.

?? Red Flags:

? Low-quality listing photos

? Lack of online presence

? No clear marketing plan

Your agent should have a strong digital marketing strategy, professional photography, and a plan to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible.

4. Trust Your Gut

At the end of the day, the right real estate agent should make you feel confident and comfortable. If something feels off—whether it’s a lack of enthusiasm, pushy behavior, or poor communication—it’s okay to keep looking.

A real estate transaction is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Having an agent you trust can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right real estate agent isn’t just about finding someone with a license—it’s about finding a partner who truly understands your goals and has the skills to get you the best possible outcome.

Take the time to research, interview, and evaluate your options. The right agent can save you time, stress, and money while ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.

At My BnB Accelerator, we work with top real estate professionals who understand the short-term rental market inside and out. If you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, check out my blog, THE REAL ESTATE EDGE: Short-Term Rental Wealth-Building Insights, and Strategies with Dr. Connor Robertson, for more expert advice.

Have you worked with an amazing real estate agent before? Share your experience in the comments! ??